At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage and optimise network and infrastructure portfolios, contracts, and vendor relationships.
- Company: Dynamic organisation seeking to streamline its infrastructure management.
- Benefits: Freelance flexibility, hybrid work model, and opportunity to shape portfolio strategy.
- Other info: Join a fast-paced environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact by establishing a structured approach to infrastructure management.
- Qualifications: Experience in IT procurement, vendor management, and strong understanding of network technologies.
The organisation currently has no structured approach to managing its infrastructure product and vendor portfolio — contracts, hardware, maintenance agreements, and licensing are fragmented across two entities with over 1,000 suppliers and no rationalisation strategy. This role will establish the portfolio management function for the network and infrastructure domain, owning total cost of ownership, lifecycle planning, and vendor strategy.
Key responsibilities
- Build and maintain a comprehensive inventory of all network and infrastructure products, contracts, and vendor relationships across both banking entities.
- Develop a portfolio view enabling buy/hold/sell decision-making across hardware, software, maintenance, and managed service contracts.
- Define and manage 5-year lifecycle plans for key infrastructure assets.
- Lead vendor rationalisation — reducing the supplier base and consolidating spend to achieve commercial leverage.
- Manage and optimise circuit and connectivity contracts (WAN, ISP, co-location).
- Provide commercial input into the procurement process for new technology decisions.
- Support budget planning and financial reporting for the infrastructure domain.
- Challenge incumbent vendors on pricing and commercial terms, leveraging competitive alternatives where appropriate.
- Work with procurement and legal to streamline the supplier onboarding process.
Requirements
Technical Requirements
- Strong understanding of network and infrastructure technology: sufficient to assess product roadmaps, EOL/EOS risk, and vendor claims.
- IT procurement and commercial management experience in a financial services or similarly complex organisation.
- Contract and vendor management: MSA, SOW, SLA negotiation experience.
- Asset lifecycle management and CMDB-linked financial tracking.
- Understanding of managed service models and outsourced IT delivery.
Advantageous
- FinOps or IT financial management qualification/experience.
- Familiarity with AWS Marketplace or equivalent procurement platforms.
- Experience with offshore delivery models and cost centre management.
Soft skills
- Commercially astute with the confidence to challenge vendors and internal stakeholders on spend decisions.
- Highly organised with strong attention to detail.
- Able to operate in an ambiguous environment and build structure where none exists.
- Effective communicator — able to present portfolio data and business cases to C-suite level.
Technology Product & Portfolio Manager (Network & Infrastructure) - freelance - hybrid, London, UK employer: Comgent
As a freelance Technology Product & Portfolio Manager in London, you will join an innovative organisation that values structured approaches to managing its infrastructure portfolio. The company fosters a collaborative work culture, offering flexible hybrid working arrangements and opportunities for professional growth in the dynamic financial services sector. With a focus on optimising vendor relationships and driving strategic decision-making, this role provides a unique chance to make a significant impact while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of London.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Technology Product & Portfolio Manager (Network & Infrastructure) - freelance - hybrid, London, UK
✨Get Involved in IT Consulting Communities
Join popular online forums and communities specifically for IT consultants, like Spiceworks or TechRepublic. This is a fab way to connect with potential clients and stay updated on industry trends that could lead to freelance gigs.
✨Showcase Your Skills with a Public Portfolio
Create a portfolio website where you showcase your IT consulting projects, case studies, and testimonials from past clients. This not only builds your credibility but also makes it easier for potential clients to see what you can offer.
✨Utilise Freelance Platforms
Don’t shy away from platforms like Upwork or Freelancer. They're great for finding freelance gigs in IT consulting. Just make sure your profile is well-crafted and highlights your skills effectively—first impressions matter!
✨Tap into Your Network
Reach out to your existing connections in the IT sector and let them know you’re available for freelance projects. This could also mean attending local tech meetups or webinars where you can not only learn but find new clients. And remember, if you see a role that looks right, apply through our website at Comgent for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Technology Product & Portfolio Manager (Network & Infrastructure) - freelance - hybrid, London, UK
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Tech Toolbox:Let’s be real: in IT consulting, your skills and tools can make or break the project. Make sure your CV includes a solid list of the technologies you’ve worked with and any specific programming languages you're fluent in. If you’ve got experience with project management tools, like JIRA or Trello, shout about that too! It shows you're not just a tech head, but you can manage the chaos too.
Your Portfolio is Your Best Mate:As a freelancer, your portfolio is your calling card. Make it shine! Include case studies of projects you’ve worked on that highlight your problem-solving skills and the impact of your work. Make sure to detail the challenges faced and how you overcame them—clients love to see tangible results. A well-structured portfolio is your best chance to impress!
Tailor Your Approach:Unlike full-time applications, freelance gigs need that personal touch. Write a cover letter that doesn't just highlight your skills but also your understanding of Comgent and what they’re looking for. Explain how your unique approach can solve their challenges. This kind of personalisation shows you care and sets you apart from the cookie-cutter applications.
Be Clear on Your Rates and Availability:When applying for freelance roles, clarity is key! Include your rates and availability upfront in your application to avoid any confusion later. This honesty will save both you and Comgent time, and it shows you’re serious about doing business. We believe it’s best to be transparent right from the get-go!
How to prepare for a job interview at Comgent
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
In IT consulting, they’ll want to see how you tackle real-life client issues. Prepare to discuss specific case studies from your freelance experience where you've demonstrated your problem-solving prowess. Come armed with examples that highlight the strategies you used and the results achieved.
✨Pitch Your Portfolio Like a Pro
As a freelancer, your portfolio is your calling card. Make sure it’s not just a collection of past projects but a narrative of your journey. Be ready to discuss how each project reflects your capability and how you can bring value to Comgent. Tailor this pitch to highlight projects that align closely with what they seek.
✨Brush Up on the Latest Tech Trends
IT consulting is all about staying ahead of the game. Make sure you’re familiar with the latest tools and technologies that are shaping the industry. You might get asked about a specific platform or software, so having fresh knowledge will give you the edge over other candidates.
✨Be Prepared for Hypothetical Scenarios
Expect some hypothetical or situational questions that assess how you'd handle various client scenarios. Practice thinking on your feet and responding to questions about project challenges or client interactions. This shows your adaptability and readiness for the freelance lifestyle, which works differently from traditional employment.
